The difference between MERV Ratings and 3M Filtrete MPR Rating

These are two different ways that filter manufacturers measure how good a filter is at pulling small particulate out of your indoor air. In both methods, the higher the rating, the better the filter does at capturing smaller particulate. This includes things such as Pet Dander, Dust Mites, Mold Spores, Viruses, Household Dust, Allergens and many other things we breathe in on a daily basis.

MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) is the standard rating method used in the industry by most manufacturers. MPR (Micro Particle Performance Rating) is the way the 3M Filtrete brand measures the quality of their filters. They have come up with their own rating system to stand out from the rest. The MPR rating measures on a smaller scale of the ability to capture submicron particles between 0.3 and 1.0 micron. MERV rating measures the filters ability to capture medium to large particles between 1 and 10 microns.

Overall they both are a good way to judge which filter is the right filter for you. But since the MPR rating is measured on a smaller scale it gives a more accurate number to what and how much is pulled out.

MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) is the standard rating method used in the industry by most manufacturers including Flanders Precisionaire.

MPR (Micro Particle Performance Rating) is the way the 3M Filtrete brand measures the quality of their filters.